Veteran actor Arjumand Rahim says she is done accepting “cardboard” maternal roles in Pakistani television dramas, arguing that characters need depth, backstories and room to evolve rather than existing only to fuss over their children.
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With nearly three decades in the industry, Rahim reflected on how she has often walked away from roles that felt repetitive or lacked narrative purpose. “My character should have things to do,” she said, noting that excitement and coherence in scripts are her primary criteria when signing new projects.
Rahim’s recent performances in Sher and Meri Zindagi Hai Tu have drawn attention for pushing against the stereotypical mold. In Sher, she played Shahtaj Phuppo, a bitter and resentful woman whose frustrations stemmed from the circumstances of her life. In contrast, her ongoing portrayal in Meri Zindagi Hai Tu explores the subtler anxieties and toxicity of an upper-class mother.
The actor revealed that she regularly collaborates with directors and production teams to address loopholes in scripts and has previously taken breaks from acting to work behind the scenes in content development. She stressed that the emotional and financial commitments of long shoots demand meaningful storytelling.
Rahim also highlighted systemic challenges within the TV industry, including delayed schedules and payments, and noted that many actors struggle to sustain continuity while waiting on stalled productions. “You are part of a team, and there are so many factors that come in,” she said.
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Beyond professional concerns, Rahim addressed broader issues such as safety and predatory behaviour in the entertainment sector, saying younger artists today are more empowered to speak up due to social media visibility. She also discussed overcoming anxiety after a family health crisis, crediting medication, exercise and work for helping her recover. For Rahim, the search for excitement — and characters with substance — remains central to her craft.